Trans People Belong”: NWSL Supporters Launch Powerful Campaign for Inclusion

Independent SC
May 2
2 min read

On May 2, 2025, a united front of National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) supporters launched the #TransPeopleBelong campaign—a bold, grassroots movement affirming that trans and queer people are an essential part of the women’s sports community.

Backed by supporters groups across all 14 current NWSL teams—and one forthcoming team, this coalition is sending a clear message: inclusion is non-negotiable.

“Those who are currently using women’s sports as a reason to exclude trans athletes are disingenuous,” said Lindsay Pankok, board member of Gotham FC’s Cloud 9 supporters group. “Supporters who have been dedicated to women’s sports for years know that the game is better when it is inclusive of trans athletes.”

The campaign includes in-stadium banners bearing the slogan “Trans People Belong,” along with an educational initiative in collaboration with Athlete Ally, a national LGBTQ+ advocacy organization in sports.

In their public statement, the supporters drew a direct line from this moment to the long history of struggle in women’s sports:

“Women’s soccer exists because society refused to accept exclusion. Our game was built through generations of struggle—for gender equity, LGBTQ+ rights, and racial justice... Efforts to exclude trans athletes are fueled by the same forces of misogyny and bigotry that have long tried to dictate who belongs.”

This isn’t just about policy—it’s about people. One of the movement’s advocates, Fish (they/them), a former Division I college player and storyteller, spoke powerfully to the emotional core of the campaign: “This game saved me. It’s because of the culture and community that I stand with my shoulders back full of love in who I am. On the field, behind the scenes, and in the stands, I’ve only been met with love. And that’s what we’re protecting—for everyone.”

Want to show your support?

You can help amplify the message by purchasing and wearing a “Trans People Belong” t-shirt, with proceeds supporting ongoing advocacy efforts. Grab yours here:

👉 https://www.bonfire.com/trans-people-belong-1/

The message is simple, but urgent: Silence is not neutrality. Inclusion is the goal.

Whether you're on the field, in the stands, or online—now is the time to speak up. Trans people belong in soccer. They belong in our communities. They belong—period.